Dual diagnosis is a condition where an individual has co-existing mental health disorders along with substance abuse. Mental illness, in combination with alcohol and drug addictions, is more common than most people know.

A dual diagnosis of alcohol and depression together is common, as drinkers may use alcohol to alleviate depressive symptoms. Conversely, a person who suffers from alcoholism may develop depression as alcohol is a depressant that creates chemical changes in the brain. Dual diagnosis treatment aims to make the distinction between the two conditions and treat them simultaneously. Indianapolis Drug Treatment Centers understands the best dual diagnosis treatment centers are staffed by dedicated medical and mental health experts who work together to provide patients with the most tailored treatment plan for recovery. Call Indianapolis Drug Treatment Centers today at (317) 682-1670 for more information about available treatment programs and services.

Addiction and Mental Health Disorders

Eating Disorders

The reward center in the brain is stimulated by gratifying actions. Stimulation from substances and alcohol produces the same positive effects. Enjoyable stimulation can come from food also. The same type of stimulation also blocks unwelcome, negative and painful feelings and emotions. As the brain learns that gratification blocks the negative, the need for stimulation escalates, thus a development of an addictive cycle. When eating food is the stimulus, eating disorders are created such as overeating.

Depression

Depression can lead to substance abuse. People with depression disorder find relief using drugs or alcohol by blocking painful feelings. This short-term relief dissipates and substance abuse feeds upon the depression.

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

OCD sufferers have a difficult time controlling compulsive thoughts and obsessive actions. Self-medicating using alcohol and drugs repress those symptoms. As the person experiences life without compulsions and obsessions, an addiction upon those substances may easily develop to continue living substance-free.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

People with PTSD experience traumatic events affecting them for the long-term. These lasting effects include flashbacks, nightmares, insomnia, aggressiveness, hostility and paranoia. Drugs or alcohol become avenues for relief and escape, which help to suppress these negative feelings.

Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety disorders leave some people unable to cope with social situations. Drugs or alcohol bolster courage and decrease anxiety levels. The ability to cope when using substances appeals to those with anxiety disorders. If this develops into a habit, it can easily lead to addiction.

Alcohol and Depression

Dual diagnosis statistics suggest co-existing disorders in groups are common. Alcohol and depression commonly appear together in an abuser. Since alcohol is a depressant, continued use of alcohol can cause depression. People with depression may develop an alcohol problem using drinking as a way to alleviate depression.

Opiates and OCD

Opiates and OCD appear typically together. Opiates block intrusive thoughts and compulsive actions. Continued use of opiates gives a person with OCD relief. Opiate use may cause OCD as it alters the way the brain works.

Patterns in Dual Diagnoses

Dual diagnosis statistics show co-existing disorders occur in common sets. For example, people with depression often abuse cocaine or amphetamines. People with bipolar disorder commonly use alcohol as it relieves both mania and depression in the short-term.

Treatment Phases of a Dual Diagnosis

A dual diagnosis treatment plan should have the following elements:

Psychopharmacology: Psychiatric symptoms in an abuser may disappear once the substance abuse stops. Medication is recommended to treat any remaining psychiatric symptoms.

Psychotherapy: Group and individual therapy sessions are elements in a total treatment plan to treat mental health and addiction issues simultaneously.

Behavioral Management: Cognitive behavioral therapy is an effective therapy, where specific coping skills are developed in response to negative thoughts and actions.

Indianapolis Drug Treatment Centers can help you find treatment centers staffed by qualified and licensed addiction and mental health specialists experienced in treating a dual diagnosis and prescribing the proper treatment. Call us today at (317) 682-1670 for more information.

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